Every parent knows that schools are undergoing a massive overhaul in their education systems. For years, teaching kids has been pretty much the same since our parents were taught. Schools and educators now know that these methods do not work for every child, and that there needs to be changes to help reach as many students as possible to learn.
Increase in Tech
Of course, one of the main focuses of almost every school is an increase in technology use. Whether it is buying tablets for the first time or upgrading, schools realize that tech is ever-evolving and can help children learn faster and easier. Schools may even be implementing more (or continued) remote learning as it is also a great way for students to learn on their own pace. Technology can have a greater impact on the specific ways children can learn as well.
Schools are trying to integrate more game-based learning into their programs too. This style of learning is fun for any child young or old, and can fit easily into any subject being taught. Game-based learning gets the children involved with almost quiz-like games that are based off the information they are currently learning, helping to make the information stick better in their minds. This can also help break up the lesson plans by giving them something fun to do in between lectures and other ways of teaching while also keeping them engaged.
Personalized Learning
Another huge increase in school systems is based on more personalized learning. Schools are trying their best to move away from the full lecture style of teaching followed by a test and then moving onto the next lesson, regardless of whether the students are really catching on. More schools are integrating differing learning styles into their lesson plans, and having more time to work with individual students who may not be getting the information completely. This is a great asset to have in any school and can help your children learn at an easier pace for them, causing less stress.
Another increase schools are making is in emotional intelligence and mindfulness awareness. Many schools are realizing how stressful the education world can be, whether it is a younger student or for a teen. Schools are now implementing more mindfulness techniques in the classroom, such as breathing exercises, spatial awareness and focusing on specific objects to help a child calm down. These resources can also be a huge asset for children who are struggling in the school system, but also for the students who may be doing fine. Everyone can take these mindfulness tricks and apply them to their daily lives as they get older, so it is an invaluable tool to learn now!
Katie Kyzivat